Dear Friends,

The global emergency brought on by the coronavirus (COVID-19) has required us to adapt to a series of challenges, but it has also reminded us of why we choose to work for others. In times like these, it becomes all the more necessary to show solidarity with those most at risk and experiencing the highest levels of vulnerability.

In the face of this international crisis, we think it’s important to keep you informed of the measures Seattle International Foundation is taking to ensure the safety, health, and well-being of our team members, our grantees, and those we serve; while we continue to pursue our mission and honor our commitments to our grantee partners and donors.  

To mitigate exposure and slow the potential spread of the virus, staff began working remotely across seven cities in five countries, and we chose to cancel all our local and international travel and site visits until further notice. We have also temporarily suspended our events and in-person meetings; although, whenever possible, we are hosting these activities virtually.

Our programs and initiatives are still in effect, along with our grantmaking and intermediary services, and we are working closely with our partners and grantees to better understand their needs in the face of this pandemic, so we can provide them with the support and flexibility they require to continue their work.

As the situation evolves, we are assessing the spread of the virus on a daily basis and are closely monitoring the state of this emergency in Central America, our region of focus. We will continue to evaluate how we can contribute to alleviating the effects of the pandemic, wherever possible. It is still early to offer concrete responses, but for now, we would like to emphasize our unwavering commitment to the development of the region and its residents.

As the world confronts this challenge, we must continue to advocate for equity, rule of law and justice, and fight against inequality, exclusion and corruption.  Now more than ever, teamwork and solidarity are essential to ensure the well-being of communities at risk and to collectively prepare ourselves for the widespread ramifications of this pandemic.

Any further updates we have for you will be announced on our website and social media.

We wish you and your loved ones good health and safety; may this situation unite us and make us stronger.

The Seattle International Foundation Team 

Arturo Aguilar, Katie Steffen, Eric L. Olson, Julie Sponsler, Perla Vázquez, Olga Vnodchenko, Xiomara Carballo Briceño, Nate Moyer, Mirte Postema, Lariza Romero Fonseca, Araceli Sánchez, Laura D. Vergara, John Wachter, Paola Hurtado, Belén Franco Zaldívar, Denia Arteaga, Anna Pickett, Josué Torres Martínez, María Fernanda Chacón.